Parish Nurse Ministry

Parish nursing is the specialized practice of professional nursing that focuses on the intentional care of the spirit as part of the process of promoting holistic health and preventing or minimizing illness in a faith community.  This health care ministry encourages the individual's physical , emotional, and social well-being in the context of their relationship to God, family and neighbor.  The program is rooted in the mission of the church which reclaims the scripture, Luke 9:2 "... go and preach the kingdom of God and to heal, recognizing God's desire that we achieve fullness of being".  This unique ministry encompasses elements of pastoral care and congregational health nursing and focuses on integration of faith and wellness.  Meeting the holistic health needs of the congregation provides an avenue for discipleship, health education, health advocacy, and spiritual care through caring, intuition, respect for religious beliefs, listening and emotional support.  This health care ministry strengthens the congregation and enables members to focus on serving God by serving others.  Health and wellness programs are sponsored by the ministry and include:  blood pressure monitoring, flu shot clinics, blood drives, various lecture series, CPR, comprehensive vascular screening, etc.  Personal consultations are available to discuss drug interactions, test procedures/results from private physicians, decision making in selection of long term care facilities, health teaching, referrals and the like.  The Parish Nurse works closely with the Pastoral staff and Stephen Ministry coordinator and Ministers and in Partnership with Advocate Hospital Parish Nurse Services.  Please contact the church office for further information.